The Town of North Hempstead’s Memorial Day Commemoration and Fireworks Extravaganza will take place May 28 at North Hempstead Beach Park.
Officials said the annual event will start at 6:30 p.m. May 28 and will feature a performance from BonJourney, a Bon Jovi and Journey tribute band, a fireworks display by Santore Fireworks and an opening ceremony featuring the Vietnam Veterans of America Nassau County Chapter. Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena said the town is pleased to have an in-person event this year following the coronavirus pandemic’s hardships.
“Memorial Day serves as an opportunity to honor the members of our Armed Forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms,” DeSena said. “I urge all who attend to take the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by these brave men and women for our country.”
DeSena said the town will also offer free parking for veterans and active-duty military on the night of the event as a token of the town’s appreciation for their service for America. The free parking passes for the active military members and veterans will be issued at the North Hempstead “Yes We Can” Community Center, Michael J. Tully Park, Clinton G. Martin PArk and the Office of the Town Clerk.
Those who qualify for the passes are required to show their government-issued VA card or active military ID. Overflow parking will be available for free with shuttle bus transportation once the Beach Park lot is full.
Non-military or veteran cars who wish to park will be charged $10. The gates will open at 3:30 p.m. and the rain date for the event will be May 29.
The Port Washington Chamber of Commerce will continue their tradition of handing out hand-held American flags to attendees at the Port Washington Memorial Day Parade, scheduled for May 30 at 10 a.m.
“This is the 41st year that Chamber volunteers precede the parade and hand out thousands of free flags,” Chamber President Debbie Greco Cohen said. “Everyone in the Chamber is very proud to be a part of this effort to honor our veterans.”
The parade, organized by American Legion Post 509, VFW Henderson-Marino Post 1819, Port Washington Fire Department and Port Washington and Sands Point Police, will take place from Campus Drive to the Sousa Bandshell.
Following the parade, a Memorial Day ceremony will take place, where individuals are expected to observe social distancing.
